How to know if you have Scoliosis?
Assessing Scoliosis requires a range of tools that aids in providing a complete picture of this complex condition.
ASSESSING SCOLIOSIS
Using the concept of a plumb line falling down the length of your body while intersecting through the middle. Look at the standing body from several perspectives: Anterior (front), posterior (back), and lateral (side-on). Each view will offer different pieces of information that, when compiled, provides a 3D understanding of any presenting scoliosis.
Scoliosis: signs and symptoms
- Is the head centered over the body
- Are the shoulders level or asymmetrical (one resting higher or lower than the other)?
- Is there a prominence (excessive showing) of the Scapula (shoulder blade) on one side more than the other?
- Is there a difference in the distance between the arms and the elbows at the waist?
- Does one side of the pelvis (hips) ‘stick out’ on one side more than the other (Waist asymmetry)?
- Is the pelvis tilted up higher on one side more than the other (Hip Hike)?
- Does the lower back have an excessive curve (Lumbar Lordosis)?
Assessing Scoliosis: The Adams Forward Bending Screening Test
An essential part of this examination process is to observe the back during movement. This determines if the spine straightens out or if rotation and changes at the rib cage are identifiable.
To Test
- This test requires two (2) people, yourself and the ‘observer’.
- Stand with your feet slightly apart, with the ‘observer’ standing behind you.
- When in position, bend forward at the hips to 90 degrees (your body should be parallel with the ground), with arms hanging loosely down by your side?
- Have the ‘observer’ watch for any changes on either side of the lower, middle, and upper back.
- Note any asymmetries: prominences, or bulges that may appear more on one side than the other of the ribs cage, Scapula (shoulder blades), and/or muscles running on either side of the spine.
- If changes are evident, the ‘observer’ will notice a posterior rib hump opposite the curve’s side (convex side).
- In the Lumbar spine (lower back), where there is no rib attachment, prominence or bulging of the muscles that run alongside the spine may be evident on the side of the convexity.
TREATMENTS FOR SCOLIOSIS
Consultation
Seeking advice from an accredited health care provider who has training and experience in the assessment of Scoliosis should be the first step. While the information provided on websites or pamphlets may begin the inquiry process, you should rely on expert help. It is the guidance and expertise of your health care provider that will inform, guide, and identify the need for any treatment and management of the condition if required.
Observation
Brace (Orthotic)
Surgery
The main surgical procedure is correction, stabilization, and fusion of the curve. Fusion is the joining of two or more vertebrae. Surgery is suggested when the curve progresses to 50 degrees or more. The goal of surgery is to diminish the scoliotic curve, then maintain the correction during the period required for healing. To stabilize the spine, implants or ‘rods’ are used. While surgery is necessary in some cases, there are several non-surgical considerations.
PLEASE NOTE
This information does not take the place of qualified health care professionals. Always seek accredited medical advice before proceeding with any course of treatment.